Killiaen Van Rensselaer

Killiaen Van Rensselaer was the Dutch entrepreneur who
secured the grant for the Manor of Rensselaerswyck
and who was the driving force in its settlement until his death in 1642 or '43.

While acknowledging his primal influence, because he died prior to Albany's founding, never came to America, and never lived in the city of Albany, we must leave the focused study of his life to others.

However, four of his sons including domine Nicholas and the young Richard) from his second marriage to Anna Wely emigrated to America and played
prominent roles in the settlement of Albany and its environs. His descendants
in America are the progeny of his son Jeremias.

At least four individuals named "Kiliaen
Van Rensselaer" actually lived in the city of Albany during its formative
years. However, by definition, we will have the
least to say about this most important Van Rensselaer.

The following biographical links should get you started:

Wikipedia article - most comprehensive and connected and recently revised!